Alkali Seaheath

Frankenia salina

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Frankeniaceae
Genus:
Frankenia
Species:
Frankenia salina

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Subshrub
Height:
1-2 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
mar, apr, may, jun, jul, aug
Bloom Colors:
lavender, pink
Ground Cover:
Yes

Native Range

United States: California, Hawaii

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Scrobipalpa monumentella

Reported Fauna Sightings

Bees: American bumble bee (Bombus pensylvanicus), American bumble bee (Bombus pensylvanicus), Yellow bumble bee (Bombus fervidus), Yellow bumble bee (Bombus fervidus), Yellow-faced bumble bee (Bombus vosnesenskii), Yellow-faced bumble bee (Bombus vosnesenskii)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
saline, sandy, well-drained soil
pH:
6.5 - 8.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
commonly found in coastal salt marshes

Germination Information

Pre-treatment: Soak seeds in fresh water for 24 hours

Establishment: Seeds are collected between September 16th and October 21st. The plant is found in salt marshes, beaches and alkali flats along or near the coast; from Marin and Solano counties to Lower California; also on the islands.

Source: npn.rngr.net